A POLICE probe is under way this morning after a pedestrian died in a suspected hit-and-run in Southend. 

Officers are at the scene of the fatal collision in Southchurch Road, Southend, following the incident at 2am today. 

Essex Police were called to reports of a collision involving a car and a pedestrian in Southchurch Road travelling towards Shoebury. 

The pedestrian was sadly pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

The car involved, which police believe was light in colour, failed to stop at the scene.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "Enquiries are ongoing and the road is expected to remain partially closed for a number of hours.

"We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed anything or could have any dashcam or CCTV which could assist with this investigation to contact us.

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am to 9pm.

"Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services.

Alternatively you can call us on 101.

"In an emergency always call 999.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.

"Please quote incident 37 of December 21 when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible."